Dear Friends and Neighbors,

It is with great enthusiasm that I announce my candidacy for Mayor of Tuckahoe alongside my running mates, Trustee Joshua Gaccione, who is seeking re-election, and Sarah DeRise, who is running for her first term on the Village Board. Together we bring experience, dedication, and a deep commitment to serving our community.

First, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Omayra Andino for her strong leadership, mentorship, and support. Her steady guidance has strengthened Tuckahoe, and we are committed to building on the solid foundation she has forged.

• Since 2023, I have had the privilege of serving as Deputy Mayor, working closely with the Tuckahoe Seniors, the Zoning and Planning Boards, TESC, and the Comprehensive Planning Committee. Beyond traditional Board service, I have been proud to organize family-friendly events like the Creepy Candy Crawl and Movies in the Park, and this year I served as race director of the Tuckahoe Challenge Road Race to raise funds for the Community Center.

Together, our team has a record of results we are proud of:

• Developed a Comprehensive Village Plan, a forward-looking roadmap that balances community character with responsible growth
• Modernized essential services, including upgrades to the library, Main Street Park playground, and tennis courts
• Invested in infrastructure improvements to address climate resilience, stormwater management, traffic flow, and road resurfacing
• Implemented technology upgrades like the new online tax payment system, improving convenience for residents
• Practiced responsible budgeting and fiscal stewardship, earning the highest bond rating in Tuckahoe’s history (AA+)
• Advanced historic landmark protection while improving modernization and accessibility
• Enhanced public safety through community policing and emergency preparedness initiatives

Joining me on this journey are two outstanding community leaders:

• Joshua Gaccione has dedicated his life to service, first to his country in the U.S. Army and now to his community. He has served since 2023 on the Tuckahoe Village Board, where he has worked to ensure responsible governance and fiscal stewardship. He has been an invaluable member of this team. Joshua has partnered with the Tuckahoe History and Juneteenth Committees, and re-established the Hometown Heroes Banner program. Professionally, he serves as Director of the Westchester County Veterans Service Agency, where he advocates for veterans and their families, connecting them with resources, benefits, and opportunities.
• Sarah DeRise, a local real estate professional, has spent her life connecting and building community. She founded the Village Tag Sale, serves as president of the Friends of the Tuckahoe Library, and supports our seniors through her leadership with the ICON Foundation, where she organizes the annual Masquerade Gala while spearheading numerous community projects. Sarah’s collaborative spirit and commitment to families will be a tremendous asset to the Board.

Together, our team is committed to:

• Responsible growth that preserves Tuckahoe’s character while welcoming opportunity
• Modern, efficient services for residents of all ages
• Fiscal stewardship that protects taxpayers while investing in our future
• Transparency and open communication with all residents
• Community-building initiatives that keep Tuckahoe vibrant, inclusive, and connected

We believe in a vision of Tuckahoe that honors its history while preparing for the future — one where residents feel heard, valued, and proud to call this Village home.

We look forward to the opportunity to meet with you, listen to your ideas, and work together to continue making Tuckahoe a wonderful place to live.

Please vote for Joshua Gaccione, Sarah DeRise, and me during early voting that begins Saturday, October 25 or on Election Day, Tuesday, November 4.

With gratitude,

Cara Kronen
Candidate for Mayor of Tuckahoe